The 2013 Tour de France promises to be one of the most compelling editions of the race in recent years, with all but a couple of the world's leading riders set to battle it out for the yellow jersey.
Richie Porte (Team Sky)
If ill-fortune befalls Froome, it could well be Porte who takes advantage. The Tasmanian has impressed all season, winning Paris-Nice and finishing second to him at the Tour de Romandie and Criterium du Dauphine. A podium place is up for grabs even in support to his close friend, but that will probably depend how much leading Froome up some of the toughest climbs the Tour can offer takes out of him.
Nairo Quintana (Movistar)
Is it asking too much for a Tour rookie to win on his debut? Probably yes, but the Colombian climber is going to be a tough competitor and will fancy his chances of winning the young riders' white jersey at the very least. Former winner of the Tour De l'Avenir (the futures Tour), his form this season has been excellent, winning the Tour of the Basque Country ahead of the likes of Contador.
Tejay van Garderen (BMC)
The American broke through in 2012, finishing fifth overall and taking the white jersey after starting out in support of Cadel Evans, who fell ill. Third behind Froome and Porte in the Criterium International this year, fourth in Paris-Nice and an impressive winner at the Tour of California, it could be a podium and another white jersey for the 24-year-old.
Ryder Hesjedal (Garmin-Sharp)
Candidate with Sir Bradley Wiggins for the season's most unlucky rider, having fallen ill in the Giro and fallen off in the Tour de Suisse. Has two top-20 finishes in the Tour, but needs some luck to arrive if he is to make the top five this season. Undoubtedly one of the toughest competitors in the peloton, though.
Thibaut Pinot (FDJ)
One of last season's stars, Pinot's stage win into Porrentruy will live long in the memory for his sporting director Marc Madiot's manic reaction. France finally has a potential Tour winner, but whether it will happen this year is another question. His battle with van Garderen and Quintana for the white jersey could be a thriller.
